Modern amp sim software has progressed to an amazing degree, yet many guitarists have difficulty obtaining the same kind of responsive, organic sounds associated with physical amps. This book is loaded with tips on how to use amp sims not only to re-create the sound and feel of iconic amps, but also, to create sounds that were either impractical or impossible to do with traditional amps. Topics include: Simple ways guitars can be more sim-friendly Using processors to condition the audio prior to going through sims Hard disk editing techniques to optimize tracks for use with amp sims Multiband processing for exceptional dynamics and responsiveness Parallel processing, amp stacking Creating custom virtual cabinets instead of using the ones in the sim Eliminating aliasing and other digital artefacts, combining amp sims and physical amps, and much more The book also includes information on how guitar can blend in perfectly with EDM and other modern musical forms through the use of software processing, and techniques like modulating guitar with drums and other instruments to give highly rhythmic overlays. Filled with illustrations and tech talk sidebars on selected topics, this book is essential reading for all guitarists from traditional blues players who seek the ultimate tone, to experimental guitarists immersed in the world of electronics.
Acknowledgments Introduction. About This Book The Question of Amp Sims Tips and References Chapter 1. Getting Started with Amp Sims Yes, You Can Get Started for Free! Amp Sim Basics Plug-In Technologies and Formats How to Connect Guitars to Computers: The Audio Interface \ Amp Sim Preferences Key Takeaways Chapter 2. Amp Sim Effects Chains The Virtual Pedalboard The Virtual Rack System Profiles of Popular Effects Types Choosing the Effects Chain Order Rules Were Made to Be Broken Parallel Effect Applications Key Takeaways Chapter 3. Improving the Sound of Amp Sims Pre-Sim Tweaks Optimize Amp Sim Input and Output Levels Avoid Internal Distortion with Gain Staging Pre-Sim Filtering Use De-Essing to Reduce Amp Sim Harshness Post-Sim Filtering Virtual Miking with Amp Sims Convolution Technology-Based Cabinets Dealing with Option Overload Key Takeaways Chapter 4. Advanced Techniques Mix the Virtual and Physical Worlds Re-Amping and Amp Sims Synchronizing Amp Sim Effects to Tempo Multiband Processing Sidechaining "Special Sauces" Key Takeaways Chapter 5. MIDI Control and Automation How to Connect MIDI Hardware Devices to Your Computer MIDI Messages MIDI Controller Assignment Protocols MIDI Footswitches Host Automation Key Takeaways Chapter 6. Mobile and Live Performance Going Mobile Using Laptops for Live Performance Amp Sim and Multieffects Amplification Systems Key Takeaways
